Real-time structural monitoring of the Campos Novos dam

Energy in Brazil is generated predominantly by hydroelectricity. The advantages of hydroelectric power include the fact that it is a clean source of energy. Nevertheless, the impoundment of great amounts of water represents a risk to the area downstream in the face of an accident. Even though the chances of rupture of a dam are small, the consequences are often catastrophic. Therefore, monitoring the structures of a dam is essential to prevent disasters to the environment and population and ensure the safety of its operation. This paper describes the implementation of a real-time online monitoring system for the dam of Campos Novos Power Plant. The concrete-faced rockfill dam (CFRD) is 202 m high and 592 m long on the crest. The system comprises a digital twin, a robotic total station (RTS) system, and other automated sensors. The digital twin is a tridimensional structural model of the dam. The finite element method is used to calculate displacements and stress state of the rockfill and concrete slab. RTS measurements are made hourly ensuring the safe operation of the dam.